What are the essential items for a major car maintenance?
4 Answers
Here are the essential items for a major car maintenance: 1. Brake fluid: It is recommended to replace it every 40,000 kilometers. Of course, depending on individual circumstances, the replacement interval can be shortened. If brake fluid is not replaced for a long time, it can easily affect braking performance. 2. Air filter: Correct installation of an air filter can reduce wear on components such as cylinders, pistons, and piston rings. Typically, it should be cleaned every 5,000 kilometers and replaced every 10,000 kilometers. 3. Power steering fluid: Generally, car manufacturers do not strictly specify the replacement cycle for power steering fluid. Many car repair shops refer to service standards from other industries or learn from each other, while some companies refer to the car maintenance requirements of foreign automakers. 4. Spark plugs: Generally, spark plugs should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers. In addition, for safe driving, it is important to carefully inspect safety components such as tires, brake discs, and the transmission. Car maintenance is essential, but before proceeding, it is crucial to understand the requirements clearly to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Having worked in automotive repair training for over a decade, I've noticed many misconceptions about major vehicle maintenance. In reality, there are several core procedures that must be performed: First is a complete fluid overhaul - using full synthetic engine oil is standard practice, and never skimp on transmission fluid. Gravity draining leaves 40% of old fluid behind, so using a flush machine is more thorough when possible. Coolant should be tested for freezing point - replace if below -25°C. Brake fluid must be changed if moisture content exceeds 3% (tested with a pen), as this affects braking distance. Timing system inspection is critical - replace belts immediately if showing more than three cracks or after 80,000 km to avoid valve damage. Spark plugs require replacement when electrode gap exceeds 1.3mm, which directly impacts ignition efficiency. External fuel filters last 20,000 km while internal ones can go 60,000 km. Also clean throttle body carbon deposits - for severely dirty intake manifolds, dry ice cleaning delivers immediate results.
As a veteran taxi driver with twenty years of experience, I know the ins and outs of maintenance. For major servicing, you must pay close attention to several critical areas: the brake system requires monitoring of disc thickness—replace front brake discs when they wear down to 19mm, and rear discs at 17mm as the absolute minimum. Chassis rubber components are especially crucial; if you spot cracks in the control arm bushings, replace them immediately—a steering wheel squeak is often due to this issue. If the pulley bearings emit a humming noise, they must be replaced too, or else seizing up could pose a serious hazard. Don’t forget to inspect the charcoal canister in the fuel evaporation system—if clogged, it can cause the fuel pump to shut off prematurely and even deform the fuel tank. A rusted-through exhaust flex pipe will fill the cabin with fumes. Covering tens of thousands of kilometers monthly, skipping any of these checks could leave me stranded on the roadside.
We female car owners are most afraid of being tricked into unnecessary services! These are the real essentials: Engine oil and oil filter go without saying, using 0W-20 full synthetic is the most fuel-efficient. Hold the air filter up to the light – if it doesn’t let much light through, replace it, as it directly affects AC performance. For the cabin air filter, focus on the activated carbon layer; if it no longer has any odor-absorbing effect, it’s time for a replacement. Transmission fluid must be changed according to the maintenance manual, or else gear shifts will become jerky. For timing chain models, pay attention to the tensioner; if you hear rattling during cold starts, it needs repair. Check the battery’s CCA value with a tester – if it drops below 70% of the rated value, it could die anytime. Don’t overlook power steering fluid; if the steering feels heavier, it’s time for a change. During maintenance, remind the mechanic to inspect the chassis bushings – small issues like cracked rubber bushings, if addressed early, can save you big money.
